YGS Landscapes was established in 1973 (as Yealm Gardening Services) and has continued to go from strength to strength.

Steve Warren-Brown, now managing director, originally traded out of Steer Point, Brixton until, in 1997, he moved the company to its current premises in Plympton and renamed it YGS Landscapes. He incorporated the company in 2006.

What are the challenges of taking on an apprentice?

A serious lack of skilled staff in the Horticulture and Landscaping industry at both regional and national level, combined with the industry being undervalued, resulted in YGS undergoing a period of difficulty recruiting and retaining a skilled and experienced workforce.

The industry competes with the construction / ground works sector which is financially more attractive than horticulture, resulting in a lack of engagement from within the sector.

What's involved with the training?

To move the business forward, Steve and his team put in place a structure to support an apprenticeship programme. This became an integral part of the growth strategy of the business, with the aim for every team to have either an apprentice or a trainee working with them.

YGS’s first-ever apprentice recently celebrated 20 years with the company - and this shows the success both a company and an apprentice can have, including progressing through to supervisor level.

Opportunities have been created for those wishing to work in the sector. High-quality training is provided to arm the staff with the skills they needed which, in turn, helps with business growth. The management were also driven by a strong desire to "put back" into the local community by attracting local talent.

YGS currently has three Level 2 Horticulture apprentices attending Duchy College and apprentices in other areas of the business through other providers.

What impacts and benefits have apprentices had on the company?

Steve Warren-Brown says: "Our apprentices consistently demonstrate an excellent work ethic, fully engaging with tasks and showing initiative. They utilise their learning to bring new ideas, new systems and solutions to our business.

"As a business, YGS has taken positive steps to ensure that the low wage status of apprentices is addressed. Regular performance reviews take place and apprentices are awarded an increase in pay; all existing apprentices are being paid at least 20 per cent above the national minimum wage.

"The business has experienced 68 per cent growth in the last 12 months and without doubt, the apprentices have contributed to this success and growth. Apprenticeships really do work."